Our Mission
At Project Uplift Alliance Excellence Scholarship Foundation, a proud sub-group of Project Uplift Alliance, Inc., a 501(c)(3) recognized organization, our mission is to empower the future leaders of Bladen County by providing financial support, mentorship, and educational opportunities to high school students. We are dedicated to breaking down barriers and uplifting the potential within each student, helping them pursue their dreams of higher education with confidence and determination. Through our commitment to excellence, we aim to foster a community of scholars who will not only achieve academic success but also become changemakers in their communities. Together, we will ignite a passion for learning, inspire resilience, and pave the way for a brighter, more promising future for all.
Jerome L. & Yalita Purdie, Founders
Our Founders
As the founder of Project Uplift Alliance Excellence Scholarship Foundation, my purpose is to create a transformative pathway for high school students in Bladen County to pursue their educational dreams and unlock their full potential. I have witnessed firsthand the incredible strength and talent that resides in our youth, yet many face financial and systemic obstacles that hinder their ability to achieve greatness. It is my belief that education is a powerful tool for change, and every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.
Through this foundation, we strive to provide not just financial assistance, but also the guidance and mentorship that can make all the difference in a student’s journey. Our work is driven by the belief that with the right support, students from Bladen County can rise above challenges and become leaders who inspire and uplift their communities. I am committed to ensuring that no student is held back by a lack of resources and that every individual who seeks to better themselves through education will find a helping hand in Project Uplift Alliance. Together, we will build a brighter future, one student at a time.
Our Executive Board
Mary Alice Smith
Roberta McMillan
Celeste Lennon
Brittany Marchmon
Rev. Pia Toliver
Hakeem Brown
Dr. Donald Rush
